Question

dv/dx = k(a-2x) thus the critical point is at a/2. I need help to intuitively see that this is a maximum value.

Answer 1

if you take the second derivative d/dx(dv/dx) = -2k since this is negative the shape is a concave down graph so your critical point is the max

Answer 2

heh.. i never even thought to take the 2nd derivative... i just kept trying to take values on the number line.

Answer 3

its the little things that sneak into the problem sometimes : )

Answer 4

thanks.

Answer 5

no problem.